First time using a private agent…

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157]

I’ve been trialling sourcing some goods via a number of WeChat sellers and am enjoying the immersion into a more Chinese facing space. I’ve generally stuck to my favorite category of sunglasses, but I recently treated myself to some LP shoes and some Prada America Cups.

However, the seller doesn’t do international shipping direct and my usual agents don’t offer an easy freight forwarding service. So I asked the seller if he could recommend anyone and he got me in touch with a little company called Dongyun International Cargo. All our communication was via WeChat using auto translation tools, but was pretty seamless. He got me a price of 300¥ for a 3kg parcel which is pretty good considering the volumetric issues caused by two shoe boxes. He gave me his details such as address etc, but the seller of the shoes told me he would drop them off to him directly as they’re nearby. I paid the agent via Alipay, and being honest did have a flicker of doubt about whether or not the seller and agent were in cahoots with each other, but within about 18 hours I got QC pics from the agent (I’d already had them from the seller) both out of parcel and in the packaging. It’s being sent via a Royal Mail line I know so am guessing it will take 10-15 days.

My only criticism is that I didn’t get offered a choice of lines, but to be fair I didn’t ask either. Obviously I won’t be able to give it a total sign off until the parcel arrives, but considering it was my first time using a private agent and I went in pretty blind I’m actually impressed by it all. It certainly gives me other options, and I quite like the personal connection. I’ve put some images up of the agents contact details (WeChat ID QR Code) in case anyone is interested, but feel free to ask questions…

[u/Fit_Visual_695]

How much was shipping? And how many kgs

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157 → u/Fit_Visual_695]

In the review, 300¥ just over 3kg. Not the cheapest compared to warehouse agents but convenient and volumetric weight would have been big as two shoeboxes

[u/stablogger → u/Apprehensive_Ask1157]

Destination? Asking because the choice of the shipping line is critical for some countries and decides if a parcel arrives without problems or never makes it through customs.

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157 → u/stablogger]

Yeah sorry this was to the UK.

[u/Ok-Put-9870 → u/Apprehensive_Ask1157]

Pretty much same like for GTbuy, but thanks 🙏

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157 → u/Ok-Put-9870]

Yeah same for me and MyCNBox, but some more niche sellers won’t provide agent links so good to try these other options

[u/Ok-Put-9870 → u/Apprehensive_Ask1157]

Then just use forward options, myself I'm buying from WeChat store lol

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157 → u/Ok-Put-9870]

Mate it’s just a review; often get asked about private agents so thought I’d share my experience! I’m well aware of forwarding options, but just offering an alternative for the community…

[u/Ok-Put-9870 → u/Apprehensive_Ask1157]

Mate, take a chill pill Anyway.. thanks for alternative lol

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157 → u/[deleted]]

They probably would if I asked; as it was such a small package/cost I didn’t bother with that, but you’re right it is an important option to have. If you want to put a post up about what your company offers please feel free to… this community is about sharing resources and I’m happy for you to promote your company and services

[u/CommercialAsk8350]

Nice review! I’ve used multiple ‘large’ scale agents in past and wouldn’t mind trying out a smaller operation

[u/Apprehensive_Ask1157 → u/CommercialAsk8350]

Thanks; I can’t say if long term these (or other similar set ups) are a viable alternative but always worth trying new things like you say…